Canada to New Zealand eTA

Updated on Sep 13, 2024 | New Zealand eTA

Only travelers from visa waiver countries have the privilege to apply for NZeTA. It is an electronic visa, under the visa waiver scheme of New Zealand. The NZeTA was introduced in October 2019, allowing travelers to enter the country for reasons related to transit, tourism and business.

Applicants applying for NZeTA should fill the form online, they have to complete filling personal details, passport details, answer certain eligibility questions like if they have any health issues or have any criminal records, they have to answer each and every question honestly and accurately. Once travelers receive the approved New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority, it has a duration period of two years with multiple entries, but each visit is limited to short stays, i.e 3 months (90 days) per visit.

Those passengers who came by cruise ship also have to apply for the NZeTA, for further information do check the eligibility for Traveling to New Zealand on a Cruise Ship.

What are the document requirements for Canadian Citizens to apply for the NZeTA?

NZ visa for Canadian citizens, the documents required to apply for the NZeTA includes the following, as applicants need to apply online, make sure to gather all before you start filling the form:

  • Valid Canadian Passport with 6 months validity till return and having blank pages for stamp
  • Recent passport photo that meets the photo requirements eligibility criteria to upload.
  • Online payment through debit/credit card
  • Email address to notify regarding the NZeTA status

NZeTA for Canadian nationals, what are its eligibility criteria?

Below are the NZeTA eligibility criteria for NZ Visa for Canadian Citizens, check the list:

  • Canadian Citizens must have a return ticket, if they are transiting through New Zealand they must have an onward journey ticket and if they are coming to visit New Zealand, they must have a return ticket with a limited stay of 3 months and not exceeding that..
  • Good character, if you have committed a crime in the past or have been sentenced in the past you will be denied NZeTA, depending on the crime you have committed.
  • Good health, the traveler should not suffer from any contagious diseases when they land in the country.

If the New Zealand immigration officials feel that you can be a risk to the security of the nation you will be rejected to travel.

What are the purposes for which the NZeTA can be used?

NZeTA for Canadian nationals, since the citizens belong to visa waiver nation, they can apply for NZeTa, and can use it for the following purposes:

  • Business purpose limited to only attending meetings, events, conferences, and seminars.
  • Tourism purpose, travelers who hopes to explore the country
  • Airline and cruise ship crew members, traveling as a part of the team
  • Visit to meet friends and family
  • Passengers only Transiting (layover or stop) through Auckland Airport.

NZeTA for Canadian nationals, is a short stay visa and can be applied online, applicants do not have to visit the visa office physically or attend any interviews to apply for it. The NZeTA provides benefits like the regular visa, but you can use it for transit, business and tourist purposes. Extension of stay is not allowed, you have to return back to your country within 3 months (90 days).

Important Information Regarding Visa Requirements for Canadian Citizens for NZeTA

Canadian citizens wishing to visit New Zealand based on the purpose of their visit and duration of stay they want, should apply for the prerequisite visa. For a faster and seamless application to visit New Zealand apply for NZeTA.

Air and cruise ship passengers who are transiting through Auckland Port

Some travelers only require transiting through Auckland International Airport, such travelers are also required to fill the NZeTA. This ensures that such passengers are able to enjoy hassle-free transit through Auckland international Ports.

Visa-free travel for tourism and business activities

Canadian nationals can opt for visa-free entry to New Zealand as part of the nation's scheme for activities related to tourism and business. Travelers can apply for the NZeTA online, once approved it is valid for 2 years and offers multiple visits with limited stay during each visit.

For longer stay experience to work or live in the country

Canadian nationals wanting to stay in New Zealand for more than the maximum period allowed i.e. more than 90 days for work or live in the country will have to get a New Zealand visa. According to their necessity and duration of stay, they can apply for the visa by visiting the New Zealand Embassy in Canada.

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Canadian citizens applying for the NZeTA, guidelines to fill the form

NZ visa for Canadian citizens, this electronic visa allows Canadian citizens to apply for a visa without physically having to visit the embassy, that being said, here is the stepwise guide to fill the NZeTA form:

Step 1: Finish the NZeTA form online

NZ visa for Canadian citizens, applicants have to fill the form online, you will have to fill the mentioned details like your personal information, passport information, travel details, eligibility questions related to health and criminal records, why you are visiting the country and some security questions.

Step 2: Upload documents

The NZ visa for Canadian citizens, requires the applicant to upload documents like your passport and your recent photograph.

Step 3: Review, confirm and then finally opt for declaration

Applicants after filing the form, review your application details once again, then click on the confirmation button, and finally the declaration button, where you state that you have given permission to access your information and that you abide by the rules of the NZeTA application process.

Step 3: Make the payment for your applied application

Finally you will be directed to the payment option, where you have to make the NZeTA and IVL fees only through your debit/credit card.

The IVL is the tourism levy fees and its fund is invested for the betterment of the tourism infrastructure, wildlife and natural environment of New Zealand.

Step 4: Wait for receiving confirmation mail or SMS

After following all the procedures of NZeTA, you have finally submitted your application, the applicant has to now wait for the status of NZeTA.

NZ visa for Canadian citizens, how much time would it take to process the NZeTA?

The general time required for the NZ visa for Canadian citizens to be processed is around 3 days (72 hours). However, it varies from application to application, if everything is okay, you might get the approved NZeTA before 3 days, but if something goes wrong like incomplete form, requirement of more documents, it may take more than 3 days.

So it is recommended that travelers, eagerly waiting to travel to New Zealand, should apply for NZeTA well in advance.

NZeTA for Canadian nationals, what is the validity and duration of stay with this visa type?

NZeTA for Canadian nationals, allows citizens to have a hassle-free short-stay in the country for three months. NZeTA for Canadian nationals is valid for up to two years with multiple entries for visiting the country and five years for airline and cruise crew members. Although the NZeTA allows entries for multiple times in two years, the duration of stay during each visit is 3 months (90 days).

Canadian nationals when visiting New Zealand with NZeTA, what are the key documents they need to present?

With NZ visa for Canadian citizens, when you arrive in New Zealand, you need to present:

  • Approved NZeTA letter digitally or hard copy
  • Valid Canadian passport
  • New Zealand Traveller Declaration, previously referred to as Passenger Arrival Card
  • Evidence that you have money to cover your expenses during your stay in New Zealand, minimum NZ$1000 per month per person.
  • Accommodations
  • Evidence of return or onward ticket

Note:

Be sure to bring the passport which you have used to apply for NZeTA, as it is electronically connected, when you enter or leave the country you have to show the same passport.

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From October 2019, travelers from visa-waiver countries can apply for the NZeTA to visit the country for tourism, transiting and business purposes. As a visitor if you aren't aware, check this New Zealand eTA Visitor Information for all Visitors seeking short term travel to New Zealand.

What are the documents Canadian citizens need to carry to New Zealand?

So, finally you have received your approved NZeTA and planning to visit New Zealand, here is a list of the documents you need to carry:

  • Approved NZeTA
  • Valid Canadian passport
  • Funds up to NZ$1000/- for per month stay
  • Accommodation details
  • Return ticket

What are the guidelines for Canadian Citizens to follow on arriving in New Zealand?

Canadian citizens when they land in New Zealand Airport, after you exit from your flight, follow the signs towards the passport controls. The immigration officials will check your passport, approved NZeTA and New Zealand Traveller Declaration (formerly known as Passenger Arrival Card).

This NZTD gets automatically linked to your passport once you submit it, so when your passport is scanned at the eGate your NZTD will be verified as well. In case you have the hard copy of your NZTD you can show at the eGate.

Canada to New Zealand NZeTA: Crucial Travel Details

When traveling to New Zealand from Canada, air travel provides a convenient travel experience to the country. Here are some of the crucial travel details that you need to check before flying ito NZ::

Flights details to and from Canada-New Zealand

Direct flights are available from Canada's airports like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary to New Zealand's Auckland, Hamilton and Christchurch. Travelers need not worry as many flights fly between Canada and New Zealand.

Valid passport and approved NZeTA

Canadian nationals on arriving in New Zealand, at the passport controls they will have to present their passport and approved NZeTA. The passport used needs to be valid for at least 6 months which includes your return to your home country. The approved NZeTA can be used only for the purpose you have applied for and you cannot extend your stay.

Cruise ship passengers with NZeTA

Passengers arriving by cruise ship in New Zealand will also have to get the NZeTA, and they need to apply for the NZeTA before their arrival in New Zealand. Entry into the country will be allowed only through NZeTA, without it you will not be allowed to move out of the ship port.

By knowing the above mentioned cruise travel details, you can enjoy a wonderful travel experience from Canada to New Zealand.

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Canada to New Zealand with NZeTA: Duration of Stay Guidelines for Canadian nationals

For Canadian citizens traveling to New Zealand with NZeTA, the maximum stay offered is 3 months which you cannot extend at any cost. To be updated with the stay guidelines provided, here is what you need to check:

Validity NZeTA

The approved NZeTA is offered for 2-years, during this 2-years timeframe, travelers can enjoy multiple entries into the country. The details regarding your approved NZeTA validity start-date and end-date are mentioned on this electronic travel authorization.

Maximum stay allotted

Although the NZeTA allows multiple entries during two-years of validity period, the maximum stay offered is 3 months during each individual visit, and travelers are not allowed for extension or renewal.

Passport Expiry and NZeTA Renewal

When your passport expires your NZeTA also expires. If your NZeTA is for two-years, and your passport expired before the expiry of the NZeTA, it means that the NZeTA will expire as well, as the NZeTA is electronically connected to the passport.

Travelers should keep in mind that they need to stick to the maximum stay period offered with NZeTA and that your passport and NZeTA remain valid throughout your stay. Violation of rules like overstaying with NZeTA, you will be fined and penalties will be charged and even ban on future entry or deportation from the country.

By sticking to the rules of NZeTA, travelers are sure to enjoy a beautiful visit to New Zealand with the NZeTA.

Canada to New Zealand NZeTA: Transit Information for Canadian Nationals

Canadian nationals who are transiting through New Zealand with the NZeTA, they have the permission to transit through Auckland International Airport. Here are some of the transit information that Canadians transiting through New Zealand need to keep in mind:

Transit benefits to passengers

With the transit NZeTA Canadian citizens have the privilege to either remain on the flight or use the transit facilities (moving around the transit area only) within the designated airport (Auckland International Airport) for a time period of 24 hours.

Requirement for NZeTA

Those Canadian travelers who are planning to transit through Auckland International Airport, they must have the transit NZeTA which serves the benefit of only transiting through New Zealand. This transit NZeTA must be obtained in advance before your trip.

Transiting formalities

When arriving in New Zealand Airport, Canadian transit passengers must oblige to the rules of the transiting proceedings which include going through security check, collecting your luggage from the baggage belt area, then head towards the transit area or the boarding gate to catch your onward flight.

Canadian transiting passengers with NZeTA, must know that they are only allowed to stay in the transit area, if they want to exit the airport they have to apply for NZeTA for tourism or business purpose or New Zealand Visa, depending on your reason of entry into the country and your expected stay period required.

So by knowing the above mentioned transiting rules, you are surely going to have a hassle-free transiting experience through Auckland International Airport and getting on-board your next flight for your designated destination.

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If travelers are visiting some country and have to transit through New Zealand, they can easily opt for the transit NZeTA instead of a visa. This scheme is applicable for citizens of transit waiver countries only. Learn more at New Zealand Transit Visa.

Crucial Info about Canada to New Zealand NZeTA Registration: Confirming the Safety of the Canadians

Canadian citizens planning a trip to New Zealand for their safety when traveling around the country, it is advised to register with the Embassy of Canada. By registering, Canadians can stay updated in regards to the latest information and advisories, get security information and develop a reliable communication-medium for first point of contact in case of emergencies or any unwanted incidents. Below is a stepwise guide in short to opt for the registering with the Canadian embassy:

Step 1: Start by filling the NZeTA Application form with basic details

Canadian national applicants should visit the site and apply for the NZeTA, wherein the applicant is required to complete filling details like name, surname, date of birth, passport number, passport issuing and expiry date and your travel information i.e. entry and exit from the country.

Step 2: Complete the NZeTA fee and IVL fee Payment

After reviewing the NZeTA form, and declaring it, you will be taken to the payment fees wherein you have to proceed with NZeTA fees and along with it you have to pay the IVL fees as well.

Step 3: During Payment choose to register with the Embassy of Canada

When you are done filling the NZeTA form online, after reviewing and finally paying the fee, opt for the option register with the Embassy of Canada. This choice will let you register with the Embassy of Canada in New Zealand and enjoy its benefits of staying updated.

Step 4: Automated registration with the Embassy of Canada in New Zealand

After paying the NZeTA and IVL fee, and choosing the option register with the Embassy of Canada in New Zealand, you will be automatically registered at the Canadian Embassy in New Zealand and enjoy getting all the updates related to the latest information and travel advisories and to contact in case of emergencies.

By following the above mentioned steps in short, you can enjoy hassle-free registration with the Embassy of Canada in New Zealand.

Canadian nationals traveling to New Zealand with NZeTA: What about Visa Requirements for Canadians wishing to Relocate?

Canadian nationals who wish to visit New Zealand for an extended stay for a job or to live in the country, they have to apply for a specific visa and must-see that they fulfill the requirements. Here are some of the important information that you must-see to it to apply for the visa for relocating in New Zealand:

Eligibility Criterion

The eligibility criterion for work visa is based on the skill-set of the applicant, his qualification, work-experience, field he is expert in, etc. The applicant will have to thoroughly review his application, attaching all the important documents before finally submitting to the immigration officials of the New Zealand Embassy in Canada.

Tourist NZeTA limitations

With NZeTA tourist visa which is valid for 2-years, Canadian citizens are offered to stay in the country for 3-months with facility of multiple entries during this 2-year time period. With this visa they are only allowed to explore the sightseeing places, visit friends and relatives, etc. Canadians with tourist NZeTA cannot use it for jobs, voluntary work that includes pay, residing, etc.

Work Visa for Professionals

Canadian nationals having the desire to work in New Zealand are granted to opt for the work visa. Those professionals who have the skills in the required work are eligible to apply, as New Zealand requires skilled workers to contribute to the economy of the country.

Application Process

Those Canadian nationals wishing to apply for a work visa, they should fill the required form with the prerequisite form and visit the immigration department of New Zealand. In the work visa form, complete filling crucial details like name, surname, date of birth, mobile number, residence address, qualifications, skill-set, work-experience, and an employment letter in a letterhead from an organization or employer in New Zealand.

The necessities of relocating in New Zealand varies so obtaining the right type of visa is crucial to enjoy a convenient entry into the country and enjoying a stress-free stay in the country. Those Canadian nationals who are interested in either working or living in New Zealand should see all the options available, follow the rules for a promising entry into the nation for a long stay.


Ensure that you have checked the eligibility for your New Zealand eTA. If you are from a Visa Waiver country then you can apply for an eTA regardless of the mode of travel (Air / Cruise). European Union citizens, US citizens, UK citizens, Brazilian citizens and Swiss citizens can also apply online for New Zealand eTA.